Jamming and Spoofing Techniques for Drone Neutralization: An Experimental Study
Younes Zidane, José Silvestre Silva, Gonçalo Tavares
Abstract
This study explores the use of electronic countermeasures to disrupt communications systems in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), focusing on the protection of airspaces and critical infrastructures such as airports and power stations. The research aims to develop a low-cost, adaptable jamming device using Software Defined Radio (SDR) technology, targeting key UAV communication links, including geolocation, radio control, and video transmission. It applies jamming techniques that successfully disrupt UAV communications. GPS spoofing techniques were also implemented, with both static and dynamic spoofing tested to mislead the drones’ navigation systems. Dynamic spoofing, combined with no-fly zone enforcement, proved to be particularly effective in forcing drones to land or exhibit erratic behavior. The conclusions of this study highlight the effectiveness of these techniques in neutralizing unauthorized UAVs, while also identifying the need for future research in countering drones that operate on alternative frequencies, such as 4G/5G, to enhance the system’s robustness in evolving drone environments.